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It is said that 2024 will bring the brightest Northern Lights display in 11 Years! The intensity is believed to stay at its peak till 2026. But, irrespective of when you are planning to tick off this major travel wishlist item I’m here to answer all your burning questions about Northern Lights chase in Norway. I visited Norway for roughly a week and after multiple chases, I’ve put down all you need to know about Northern Lights in Tromsø. Including an exclusive map of the best self-drive spots to chase the Northern Lights in Tromsø.

Where is the best place in Norway to see the Northern Lights?

Tromso is often considered one of the best places to see the Northern Lights in Norway due to its location in the auroral oval and its relatively mild winter temperatures. I stayed in Tromsø for a week and had the chance to spot them twice. Besides Tromso, other regions known for good Northern Lights sightings in Norway include the Lofoten Islands, Finnmark, and the Svalbard archipelago.

What time of year is optimal for viewing the Northern Lights in Norway?

The best time to see the Northern Lights in Norway is typically from late September to late March when the nights are long and dark. However, the peak season is usually from October to February.

What are the chances of seeing the Northern Lights in Norway?

The chances of seeing the Northern Lights in Norway depend on various factors such as solar activity, weather conditions, and your location within the country. In popular Northern Lights regions like Tromso, the chances are generally higher during the peak season from October to February, with some sources suggesting around 70-80% probability of sightings on clear nights. Another popular destination is Lapland, Finland.

Can you see the Northern Lights in Norway during summer?

While it’s rare, it is possible to see the Northern Lights in Norway during the summer months, especially in the far north where the midnight sun doesn’t completely dominate the sky. I wouldn’t recommend going for a chase in Summer.

Are there guided Northern Lights tours available in Norway?

Yes, there are plenty of guided Northern Lights tours available in Norway, particularly in Tromso. I recommend booking this one online to secure your spot. If you want more flexibility and save cost, I recommend going a self-drive route and doing the chase yourself.

Are there any Northern Lights viewing spots accessible by public transportation in Norway?

Yes, there are several Northern Lights viewing spots in Norway accessible by public transportation. I’ve made a map of some of the best self-drive northern lights viewing spots in Tromsø, get it here!

What are the best Northern Lights photography locations in Norway?

Some popular Northern Lights photography locations in Norway include the iconic fishing villages of Reine and Hamnøy in the Lofoten Islands, the fjords near Tromso, and scenic viewpoints overlooking the city lights against the aurora-filled sky.  Fill out this form, make the payment and get my exclusive map!

Can I see the Northern Lights from cities like Oslo or Bergen in Norway?

While it’s possible to see the Northern Lights from cities like Oslo or Bergen under exceptional circumstances, it’s relatively rare due to light pollution and their more southern locations. However, during periods of high auroral activity and exceptionally clear skies, sightings from these cities have been reported. For the best chances, though, it’s recommended to travel to Northern Norway where the conditions are more favourable.

Are there any specific accommodations or lodges in Norway known for their Northern Lights experiences?

There are several accommodations and lodges in Norway known for their Northern Lights experiences. Places like the Tromsø Ice Domes, Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel in Alta, and Lyngen North in the Lyngen Alps are famous for offering unique stays with Northern Lights viewing opportunities. You can book them all here!

How long should I plan to stay in Tromsø to have a good chance of seeing the Northern Lights?

I recommend planning at least 3 days to a week in Tromsø for a good chance of seeing the Northern Lights. This allows flexibility in case of changing weather conditions and increases the likelihood of catching clear nights with auroral activity.

Tromsø’s Best Self-Drive Northern Lights Spots

Explore Tromsø’s Aurora Trails with my downloadable private Google map! You won’t find these Northern Lights spots anywhere on the internet! Trust me on that. On top of it, you’ll be saving over $250 compared to those pricey guided tours. Whether you’re up for spots right by the city or a short jaunt away, this map’s got you covered. Fill out this form, make the payment and get the map!